John 11:51. "And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;"
FOR THAT NATION: the prophecy of the cross.
Long dispersed in distant lands; the nation far was scattered.
Never would it be possible by man's arranging - to be gathered.
There must be some divine plan or Person to restore the identity
Of a people so small and scattered that there would ever be unity.
Perhaps this priest was the last man we would choose to predict the future.
He was not only open in opposition to the Lord; he didn't have a new nature.
This may explain some of the things I have seen that come to pass.
Even in my lifetime people have determined the Jews would not last.
Hunted and killed; tortured and burned - and still these people survive.
The only explanation for their existence is, God wants this nation alive.
He has planned and will bring to fruition a time of Israel's peace.
After all the rejection, being despised and killed, God will show that nation His grace.
They will see Him coming in garments stained, with the crimson reminder of death.
They will remember the One they refused, is still determined Israel to bless.
Like Joseph's brothers, Israel will bow before the King on David's throne.
After centuries of terrible persecution and pain, Israel will finally come home.
Then they will see the nail marks in His hands and remember what they did.
They will look at the King on His throne and realize, they were never hid
From the eyes of Jehovah that followed them on the paths of their own choosing -
And the wages of sin will have their cost; they were responsible for the nation's loosing.
The re-gathering will happen because one day on the cross, Jesus died for the nation.
Those who trusted in Him personally are blessed with God's gracious salvation.
When the nation is gathered again, the promises made will be fulfilled.
The prophecy made by one in unbelief, God will see is upheld.
"O Lord God, the long centuries have taken awful toll on Thy chosen people. I pray for
their peace. May many yet come to faith in Christ. In the name of the Lord Jesus
Christ, Amen."